So no, IUDs/IUSs don’t cause ectopic pregnancy.

They’re safe, long-acting, and one of the most effective birth control options available.

Always talk to your healthcare provider about what’s best for you.
lothiansexualhealth.scot/contraceptio...

#ReproductiveHealth #BodyLiteracy

Think of it like this:

The IUD is excellent at blocking uterine pregnancies. So if the tiny chance of pregnancy happens, it’s more likely to be ectopic just by default, not because the IUD created that risk.

If you do get pregnant with an IUD in place (very rare), there’s a slightly higher chance that it could be ectopic.

That’s not because the IUD causes it, but because it’s so good at stopping regular pregnancies in the womb.

Here’s what’s true:

IUDs (copper or hormonal) are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy, including ectopic pregnancy.
Most people using an IUD won’t get pregnant at all.

🚫 Myth: IUDs or IUSs cause ectopic pregnancies.
✅ Truth: They don’t increase your overall risk - they actually reduce it. Here's the facts: 🧵

#IUDFacts #ContraceptionMyths #ReproHealth

Don’t let fear hold you back from learning what works for your body.

Always talk to your nurse or doctor, ask questions, and advocate for your comfort.
lothiansexualhealth.scot/contraception/

#ImplantFacts #HormonalBirthControl

Bonus:
The implant lasts up to 3 years, is over 99% effective, and is one of the lowest-maintenance options out there.
Set it and forget it.

What does it feel like?

Most say: “Like a blood test” or “pressure, not pain”
Mild soreness afterward is normal
No stitches, no downtime, just a tiny bandage

Here’s how it works:
A small dose of numbing medicine is used on your upper arm.
The implant (a matchstick-sized rod) is inserted just under the skin with a device.
The whole process usually takes 5–10 minutes.

🚫Myth: Getting a hormonal implant is super painful.
✅Truth: It’s not. With local anaesthetic, most people feel just pressure or a mild pinch, and it’s done in minutes. Let’s talk facts. 🧵

#ContraceptionMyths #ReproductiveHealth

Hormonal contraception doesn’t harm your future fertility.

Don't let myths block your choices.

Always talk to a healthcare provider about your options: lothiansexualhealth.scot/contraception/

Empowerment starts with facts.

#BodyLiteracy #ReproductiveHealth

Confused by a delay?

It’s more likely due to your natural cycle, age, or underlying health, not because of the contraception.

Birth control can mask irregular cycles, but it doesn’t cause them.

Here’s the science:

Studies show that hormonal birth control does not delay or reduce long-term fertility.

Some people ovulate within days of stopping. Others take a few cycles.

Both are normal.

Hormonal contraception temporarily stops ovulation or thickens cervical mucus to prevent pregnancy.

But once you stop it? Your natural hormonal rhythm resumes. For most people, fertility returns quickly, often within 1–3 months.

🚫Myth: Hormonal birth control damages your long term fertility.
✅Truth: It doesn’t. Your body typically bounces back within a few weeks to a few months after stopping your chosen contraceptive.

Let’s break it down. 🧵
#FertilityFacts #ContraceptionMyths

🚫Myth: Hormonal contraception causes weight gain.
✅Truth: Most people don’t experience significant weight gain on the pill, patch, or ring. Studies show no link.
Some people may gain weight using the Depo-Provera jag however, especially with long-term use.
#contraceptivemyths

A huge thank you to colleagues across Lothian who joined us 25 February for the Phase 2 Women’s Health Plan Launch in the lead up to International Women’s Day on 08 March 2026!

org.nhslothian.scot/strategies/w...

#Womenshealth
#Womenshealthplan
#Phase2takesusfurther
#IWD2026

Doxycycline Post Exposure Prophylaxis (DoxyPEP) is now available for eligible people through Lothian Sexual Health Services.

This is a medication to help prevent syphilis and chlamydia. For more information on how to access, please visit our website: www.lothiansexualhealth.scot

If you're gay, bisexual, or a man who has sex with men (GBMSM), staying protected is essential. Roam Outreach offers vaccines to keep you safe:

✅ HPV Vaccine
✅ MenB Vaccine for gonorrhoea
✅ Mpox Smallpox Vaccine
✅ Hepatitis A & B Vaccines

Check your eligibility at www.roam-outreach.com

Phase Two of the Women’s Health Plan is building on progress and taking action for women's health across Scotland.
Phase Two addresses the issues that matter to women at every stage of life with new actions and continued commitment.
#WomensHealthPlan #Phase2TakesUsFurther

SARCS is a dedicated NHS Scotland service which offers
healthcare and support in the days after an assault if you are
not ready to tell the police or are unsure.
Find out more: www.nhsinform.scot/SARCS
#TurnToSARCS

Are you experiencing bleeding on the contraceptive implant?
You could help shape future treatments by joining a research study. Find out more here: www.debi.ac.uk

See all our research studies here: www.lothiansexualhealth.scot/research/

We are proud to bring nature and warmth to the Chalmers Centre with artist Natasha Russell. Who worked closely with staff and patients to ensure the artwork represented the ethos of inclusivity and respect that underpins the service, whilst also connecting with those visiting the Centre.

Lothian Sexual Health services will be closed over the Christmas and New Year public holidays.

Please plan ahead and check opening times, including limited drop-in sessions and advice on emergency contraception, here:
www.lothiansexualhealth.scot/festiveclosu...

Red ribbon symbolizing AIDS awareness with World AIDS Day text and Public Health Scotland message on ending HIV transmission by 2030.

Scotland is making good progress towards HIV transmission elimination targets.

Our HIV in Scotland report shows since 2017, the annual number of first ever diagnoses recorded has nearly halved - from 225 to 125 in 2024.

Read more 🔽
https://ow.ly/946v50XA5IA

#WorldAIDSDay

Hand holding a red ribbon pin badge. Text: "More than a Ribbon," "Donate to get your World AIDS Day pin badge," "World AIDS Day - 1 December 2025." Terrence Higgins Trust logo.

This World AIDS Day, 1 December, we remember those we’ve lost to HIV.

Join with our community to promise, pledge and take a stand for people living with HIV – because it’s more than a ribbon.

Donate now.

https://www.tht.org.uk/pin

#16Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence begins today.

Online violence doesn't leave physical bruises, but it cause mental scars.
It’s a continuation of offline abuse; amplified by anonymity & reach.

🔒 Block and report abuse
🗣️ Speak up & support survivors
🫶 Post with empathy & respect

Looking to start contraception or need a coil or implant inserted or removed?

If you live in West Lothian, you can visit the Howden Sexual Health drop-in clinic for contraceptive injections, implants, or IUD (coil) procedures, no appointment needed.
Find out more: www.lothiansexualhealth.scot/LARC

Young people in Lothian can access free and confidential sexual health advice through Healthy Respect 💜

Get condoms, STI testing, contraception and support, all in a friendly, non-judgemental space for ages 13+.

Find services near you: healthyrespect.co.uk

You can find our friendly Roam Outreach team at Longniddry Community Centre between 12.30pm and 2.30pm, every second Wednesday (from 5th November).

For more info on Roam, and to find testing near you, check out their website:
roam-outreach.com